Politicians in Washington DC has delayed the launch of a mobile sports betting app until US sports are being played again.

The Office of Lottery and Gaming was due to launch a platform called GambetDC from Intralot on March 31.

Nicole Jordan, director of marketing and communications for the lottery said: “We are revising our sports wagering launch strategy based on the current state of world events, but will be posting information about the platform in the coming days, including introducing the brand and its functionalities. The Lottery and Intralot are prepared to launch the platform when it is safe for the sports world to return. GambetDC, the sports betting platform powered by the DC Lottery, is tested and ready to go live. At this time, almost all sports leagues around the world have suspended play indefinitely due to growing concerns around the COVID-19 virus and, as a consequence, there are little-to-no games or bets to offer. This goes for the Lottery’s offering, as well as any other sports books operating in the US and globally.”

There will be certain areas within the District where betting using GambetDC is prohibited. These areas include all federal enclaves such as the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial that fall within the area defined under the Shipstead-Luce Act that includes the monumental core of the District, along the Potomac waterfront and Rock Creek Park.

Players are also not able to place bets with GambetDC within 2 blocks of major stadiums such as Audi Field, Capital One Arena and, Nationals Park and St. Elizabeths East Entertainment Sports Arena.

William Hill has already partnered with Capital One Arena to operate its sportsbook.